Gabbiano
Well-known member
It's not as bleak as everyone is making out on this thread.Are the established 17 clubs really that safe that it’s unlikely for any of them to get relegated in the next few seasons (as some have suggested)? And is the outlook for promoted teams that bleak?
Looking back Leicester finished 8th in 2021/22 and were relegated the following season. Forest are only in their 3rd and are looking good for the top 4 (yes they got a FFP points deduction but maybe that’s the way to do it).
The promoted teams in the last two seasons haven't really strengthened effectively, either by being frugal (Eg Luton), hamstrung by PSR (Eg Leicester, Southampton, Sheff U), naive (Burnley) or just stuck with a squad that was in League 1 two years ago (Ipswich).
Leeds and a more pragmatic Burnley I would expect to make a go of it.
But which of the established 17 look like enough of a mess to bring down? Wolves maybe, maybe a couple of others with the wrong managerial appointment. The fact that all 17 teams will have been in the PL for at least three consecutive years gives them a huge advantage and makes the job tougher.
Promoted clubs need to spend and spend cleverly. I'm not convinced this year's Championship is any stronger than last either - Leeds lost their three best players and are more competitive than last year.